Black Diamond Revelation Backpack

THE TEST: The 35-liter Revelation is Black Diamond’s first ski pack built on its proprietary suspension system, with a rotating hipbelt and swinging shoulder straps. Testers loved it. “This might be the most comfortable pack I’ve ever worn touring,” said one. Black Diamond also tweaked the position of the AvaLung (a snorkel-like device proven to prolong avalanche survival by venting exhaled carbon dioxide) to sit more comfortably on the shoulder strap. Everything we loved about earlier models—insulated hydration sleeve, well-placed tool pockets—remains the same.

THE VERDICT: Great update to a classic. 4.4 lbs

Comfort: 5Function: 4

The Revelation has a secret weapon: Black Diamond's AvaLung snow-safety breathing device is built into the pack.